curtain lecture

Older Use. a scolding administered in private by a wife to her husband.

Origin of curtain lecture

First recorded in 1625–35

And the angry expression on her face was that of a jealous wife taking notes for a curtain-lecture!

The Torrent |Vicente Blasco Ibaez
Tis in vain to talk to you; but remember I have a curtain-lecture for you, you disobedient, headstrong brute.

The Comedies of William Congreve |William Congreve
We have reason to believe that there was never even a curtain-lecture delivered on the subject of the purse-silk.

Chambers's Edinburgh Journal Vol. XVII. No. 418. New Series. |William and Robert Chambers
"Now for my curtain-lecture," he said, as they seated themselves by the fire.

The Home at Greylock |Elizabeth Prentiss

We may be called to account for disturbing the company: you may get a curtain-lecture, perhaps, sir.

Inkle and Yarico |George Colman

curtain lecture

a scolding or rebuke given in private, esp by a wife to her husband

alluding to the curtained beds where such rebukes were once given